Tuesday, January 1, 2013

Happy New Year! As I write my blog on the first day of 2013, I know I have been changed in many ways. The journey of my life has brought me from critical cynicism to a growing faith. I have come from being judgmental into a more compassionate me. I came from living a nominal Christian life into one of burgeoning faith.Living life out on the limb is not comfortable, by any means. And in many ways can be simply scary. But if you have a life of trusting in the Almighty God, that's real faith. Faith in a puny god results in puny faith. Abundant faith in an abundant God affords blessings. Really trusting in a God who Created the Universe can bring faith way beyond our wildest dreams. At least I believe so. And that's where I am today.I have been hearing a new year brings a new chapter in our lives. Of course, in Day One of the new year, we will see how that really unfolds. However, I really want to trust in a God (yes, big "G") who can do anything.

The sovereign Lord is my strength... - Habakkuk 3:19a

I can do all things through Christ, because He gives me strength. - Philippians 4:13 (NCV)

In fact, throughout scripture, God speaks about living by faith.

For we walk by faith, not by sight. - 2 Corinthians 5:7 (NKJV)

Know that a person is not justified by the works of the law, but by faith in Jesus Christ. So we, too, have put our faith in Christ and not by the works of the law, because by the works of the law no one will be justified. - Galatians 2:16

And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him. - Hebrews 11:6

Sarah Young, in her book, "Jesus Lives" writes (as Jesus speaking to us): "People settle for mediocrity because it feels comfortable. Meanwhile, they continue to battle fear. Only My Love is strong enough to break the hold that fear has on you."Recognize that you are on the threshold of a new adventure, and that I will be with you each step of the way. As we venture out together, cling tightly to My hand. The more you abandon yourself to Me, the more exuberantly you can experience My Love."

There is no fear in love. But perfect love drives out fear, because fear has to do with punishment.

The one who fears is not made perfect in love. - 1 John 4:18

So I want to live out a bold faith where I need to fully trust my Holy God and Savior! I don't want to be a casual Christian (that's an old DeGarmo and Key song). But to live and trust in the Almighty, Sovereign, Omnipotent, Omniscient and Omnipresent God He really is. That is progressive faith.

That is my resolution, if you want to call it that. I prefer to call it my life decision, because there's no reason to turn back. My pastor Ray Johnston always says, "may the rest of your life be the BEST of your life!"

Are you willing to surrender and trust the God of the Universe, the Creator and Sustainer of Life? All you need to do is say a simple prayer like this.

Holy Father God, please forgive me because I don't know what to do. I surrender my life to You. Please take my life and bless me with Your Holy Love. I love You and want to follow You. I pray this in Jesus' name. Amen.

Did you just pray that? If you did, welcome into the Family of God! Find a good Bible believing and teaching church to grow your faith and walk with Jesus, your Savior! Don't just settle for being accepted into Heaven, though that's the eternal promise given to believers and followers of Jesus. But to live a life of God's blessings, go out on that spiritual limb and trust in God. Fully.